2013 EM Projects
LOCATION
Heart Lake Conservation Area
OPENED
May 20, 2010
SIGNIFICANT FEATURES
The four sections honour the
Aboriginal culture and
teachings of the four cardinal
directions; East, South, West,
North; four sacred medicines;
sage, sweetgrass, cedar and
tobacco; four sacred colours;
yellow, red, black and white;
four sacred animals; Eagle,
Turtle, Buffalo and Bear and
four seasons and cycles of
life. It is also a symbol of the
Seven Grandfather teachings
of honesty, respect, humility,
love, wisdom, truth and
courage.
PARTNERS
TRCA
Peel Aboriginal Network
(PAN)
Four Colours Drumming Circle
(FCDC)
City of Brampton
For more information visit: http://
trca.on.ca/the-living-city/watersheds/
etobicoke-mimico-creek
Medicine Wheel Garden (Gitigaan Mashkiki)
The vision for this garden came from a male elder of the Anishnawbe Nation. The
concept of this type of garden originated with the Sacred Medicine Wheel and
represents an assortment of symbolisms and teachings. The garden honours
Mother Earth’s seasonal cycles, represents rituals and expresses artistic traditions
that all beings are related and the strength of the circle nourishes life. As the garden
changes, the circle of life also continues.
Native wildflowers plots have been created around the garden and pollinator
nesting structures have been installed to help create habitat and attract native
pollinator species. The garden and surrounding area is maintained by TRCA staff,
dedicated volunteers, members of PAN and FCDC. The site is visited by park users
frequently, and TRCA partners with the City of Brampton, residents, students and
corporate groups to deliver a variety of stewardship events throughout the year.
Both PAN and FCDC host traditional ceremonies at the garden throughout the year.
Medicine Wheel Garden (Gitigaan Mashkiki)